Near Lake Almanor and Mt. Lassen National Park, in the heart of Northern California

Horseback Riding

There are miles of pristine horseback riding trails which are accessible from our Lodge. We offer very affordable horse boarding rates in our stables. The Pacific Crest Trail is 1.4 miles from the Lodge. We can give you directions to ride to the trailhead located on Hwy 36 or by trailer. We can also give you directions to several other trailheads close by. Visit our Stables page for boarding information.

Some of our favorite horseback riding trails available in the area include:

Riding from the lodge via logging roads to the Pacific Crest Trail or just exploring the area on the logging roads. The Pacific Crest Trail can be ridden in either direction; 7 miles north is Stover Springs which has been used as a staging area for endurance rides. Heading south you cross Soldier Meadow and climb Carter Mountain

Spencer Meadows Trail which is about 11 miles west of the lodge on Hwy 36

Domingo Springs to Drakesbad via the Pacific Crest Trail. This is a favorite of many of our returning guests. Arrangements can be made to have lunch at Drakesbad and soak in their mineral hot spring pool. Drakesbad may be reached at 866-999-0914

Bizz Johnson Trail which is a segment of old railway route of 25 miles between Westwood and Susanville. There are eleven bridges and two tunnels which are all passable on horseback. If you prefer, there is a route around the tunnel near the river. There are 6 trailheads along the Bizz Johnson Trail This trail explodes with Fall Colors along the Susan River during the fall months.

Trails in Lassen Park

Lassen Park has over 150 miles of trails; 100 miles of trails are open to horseback riding.

Favorite trail of local horse owners in Lassen Park is from the Juniper Lake area. There are 2 horse corrals near the Juniper Lake Campground. The only problem with riding from Juniper Lake is that is 7 miles on washboard dirt roads to trailhead.

Horses are allowed on all designated trails in Lassen Park except:

Manzanita Lake Trail

Lassen Peak Trail

A portion of Cinder Cone Trail

Reflection Lake Trail

Bumpass Hell Trail

Devil's Kitchen Trails

Sulphur Works Trails

Some conditions of horseback riding in the Park are:

• Horses are not permitted to travel cross-country while in the park;• Prohibited to ride or stake animals in picnic areas or campgrounds;• Stock parties camping overnight are restricted to one of the designated sites at: • Summit Lake • Corral & Butte Lake Hitching Posts or Juniper Lake Corral• Flyer on saddle and pack use in Lassen Park

If you would like more information on any of these trails please give us a call at 530-258-3382 and we would be glad to help you. Best times to plan a horseback vacation in the area is mid June to late September. Riding is still great in October, but nights start getting cold for the horses.

Guided Trail Rides in Lassen Park and Lake Almanor

Drakesbad offers rides ranging in time from 45 minutes to eight hours. Their rides start from Drakesbad and go to various points in Lassen Park

Boiling Springs Lake - ¾ hour

Devils Kitchen - 1¾ hours

Terminal Geyers - 2 ¾ hours

Corral Meadow - 3 ½ hours

Sifford Lakes - 4 hours

Horseshoe Lake - 7 hours

5 Lakes Loop - 8 hours

Call Drakesbad directly at 866-999-0914 to make reservations. We suggest planning a day in the SE corner of Lassen Park. Depending on the time and length of your ride you may want to have lunch or dinner and enjoy the hot spring mineral pool. Take a hike to one of the locations you are not riding. The last 3 miles into Drakesbad is on dirt road.

At Lake Almanor

Plumas Pines Stable is near the shore of Lake Almanor and Plumas Pines Resort. The stables are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Plumas Pines Stables offer rides ranging from one hour to one and half hours. Overnight trips can be arranged. Call 530-259-5170 to make reservations.

Biking

There is an abundance of quality, quiet backroads in the area for road biking and miles of trails and logging roads for mountain biking.

St. Bernard Lodge is approximately at the half-way point for cyclists traveling the full route of the Sierra Cascades Bicycle Route. This route basically follows the Pacific Crest Trail from Canada to Mexico. The route starts at Sumas, Wa and ends in Tecate, Ca. The route is 2,396 miles long. Section 3 runs from Crater Lake National Park to Truckee, Ca and is 459 miles.

Some highlights in section 3 include Crater Lake, Ashland, McCloud, Burney Falls, Old Station, Lassen Volcanic National Park, St. Bernard Lodge, Lake Almanor, Quincy and Truckee. When biking this route, Burney Falls in McArthur-Burney State Park is a must see. Other interesting stops include Subway Caves in the Lassen National Forest near the junction of 89/44 before Old Station, and in Lassen Park; the Loomis Visitor Center, Manzanita Lake, Hot Rock, Devasted Area, Sulphur Works and the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center.

Riding Hwy 89 through Lassen Park will have you going over the highest paved road in the Cascades near the parking area for Lassen Peak. Make sure to visit park website in the spring for the date for the annual vehicle free day to ride, or walk the main park road.

For more details and maps on the route please visit the Adventure Cycling Association. St. Bernard Lodge is located along Hwy 36 15.2 miles east of Hwy 36/89 junction near the south entrance to Lassen and 10 miles west of Chester.

St. Bernard Lodge, now a historic bed and breakfast, is an ideal place to stop and spend the night on your biking/cycling route. The Lodge offers dinner with advance reservations and breakfast is included with all overnight stays. St. Bernard Lodge is 62 miles from Old Station going through Lassen Park and Quincy is about 60 miles from the Lodge. We can help with lodging choices both in Old Station and Quincy.

For both PCT hikers and long distance bicyclists, St. Bernard Lodge will accept packages. Please call the Lodge in advance to make arrangements for this service.

Short Bike Routes in the Area

Mill Creek Road (Hwy 172)Mill Creek Road and Hwy 36 near the Hanna Ranch is about 13 miles west of St. Bernard Lodge. Mill Creek Road from the Hanna Ranch to Mineral is 9 miles passing by the Mill Creek Resort. Drinks, snacks and lunch are available in the summer. The road continues to the Mineral Lodge on Hwy 36. This route can be ridden as an out and back in either direction or as a loop traveling on Hwy 36 over Morgan Summit on Hwy 36. Either route it is about 18 miles total. There is very little traffic on Hwy 172.

Lake Almanor Recreation TrailThis is a 12 mile trail paved along the west shore of Lake Almanor. The trail is 10 feet wide making plenty of room for both hikers and bicyclists. There are several places to access the trail. On the north end there is a small dirt road across from Humboldt Road, (Forest Road 27N52) and the Southern point can be accessed from the Rocky Point Boat Launch Area.

Warner Valley AreaFrom Chester you can head out in the general direction of Drakesbad, on Feather River Drive. There is 7 miles of paved roads going towards Juniper Lake before it continues another 7.5 miles on dirt road, ending at Juniper Lake. 13 miles of paved road heading into Drakesbad and through Warner Valley before the last 3 miles of dirt road into Drakesbad. There is 8.5 miles of paved road leading to Domingo Springs in the Lassen National Forest. Spring flowers and fall colors can be seen along these routes with very little automobile traffic along the road.

Last Chance LoopThis is mostly a flat loop around the upper part of Lake Almanor and the Lower part of Last Chance Creek. The route includes 3 miles of pavement and about 12 miles of gravel road.

The Coffee Station or Bodfish Bicycles both make for good starting points, from either location head east across the causeway on Hwy 36, turn left at PG&E’s Last Chance Creek Campground Road. After the campground, continue west to Walker Road, cross Benner Creek, and continue to Juniper Lake Road. From Juniper Lake Road continue on the gravel road to Warner Valley Road. Taking a left when you reach pavement will bring you back to Chester.

Back Roads of Indian ValleyThe Indian Valley Arm between Greenville and Taylorsville is a great back road through ranching country and part of the Barn Quilt Tour, distance is about 11.5 miles. Taylorsville has a great Country Store with Deli and 100 plus year old cash register which still works. There is also a tavern in town. From here you have several options. First turning around and riding back to Greenville. Secondly continuing on to Genessee and continuing ride an additional 24 miles to Antelope Lake. You can also take Taylorsville Road out to Hwy 89 and head north on 89 back into Greenville this route is about 14 miles.

There are many opportunities for Mountain Biking in the area. Routes vary from beginning to challenging. Most routes are dirt and or gravel roads, but there are a few single-track trails not far from St. Bernard Lodge.

Morgan SummitBeginning at the junction of Hwy 89/36 near the SW entrance to Lassen Park there are over 25 miles of dirt roads which range from moderate to difficult. Parking area is 15 miles east of St. Bernard Lodge. In the winter these trails are used by snowmobile's.

Spencer MeadowsSpencer Meadows Trail is a registered National Recreation Trail; trailhead is on Hwy 36 on north side 11.5 miles west of St. Bernard Lodge. Spencer Meadow Trail is a 12 mile loop and has an elevation climb of 2,410 feet. You can ride your bike to the boundary of Lassen National Park. Bicycles are not allowed on trails within Lassen Park boundaries.

Sacramento River Bend AreaThis area has two trails the Iron Canyon Trail and Hog Lake Vista Trail. The trailheads are on the north side of Hwy 36 closer to Red Bluff. These would be great easy trails to do on way to or from St. Bernard Lodge. These trails are part of the BLM system.

Bike Rides Between Chico and St. Bernard LodgeForks of Butte Creek Recreation AreaThis area is between Chico and St. Bernard Lodge off of Hwy 32 near Forest Ranch. Butte Creek Trail is 2.9 miles out and back with an 850 foot elevation climb. This trail is part of BLM.

Colby Mountain LookoutTrail distance is 11.9 miles round trip. 1.4 miles is on paved road, 10.5 on unimproved road. Trailhead is 8.8 miles from junction of Hwy 32 and Humboldt Road, parking at the Cherry Hill Campground. Colby Mountain Lookout is an active lookout at 6,002 feet elevation. From the lookout panoramic views of Lassen Peak.

Humbug Summit30.2 mile loop with 2,700 foot elevation climb. Humbug Summit is located in the Lassen National Forest. This route is also used by ATV’s. Trailhead near Butte Meadows.

Humboldt Summit14.6 miles with 2,800 elevation gain. Humboldt Summit is also located in the Lassen National Forest. Views of Lassen Peak from the trail.

Biking Routes East of St. Bernard Lodge

Trail Lake TrailStart at either Echo or Silver Lake and make a loop that includes FS10. Parts of the trail are fairly technical. The loop is 12.5 miles. There is also an out and back trail from Echo Lake to Trail Lake of 7.9 miles.

Bizz Johnson National Recreation TrailThe route runs from the Mason Station Trailhead just north of Westwood to the Train Depot in Susanville.

The trail is 25.4 miles one way with 12 bridges and two tunnels. The trail is suited for mountain bike or "fat tire" bicycles.

For a downhill route ride the trail from Westwood to Susanville. There are 5 trailheads to access the Bizz Johnson Trail; Mason Station, Westwood Junction, Goumaz, Devils Corral and the Susanville Train Depot.

Distances

Mason Station to Westwood Junction - 7.2 miles

Westwood Junction to Goumaz - 5 miles

Goumaz to Devils Corral - 6.15 miles

Devils Corral to Susanville Train Depot - 6.75 miles

All mileage is approximate.

If you choose to camp, camping is available at Goumaz and Cherry Creek Campground between Devils Corral and Susanville.

From June to Oct. on the 1st and 3rd Saturday’s of the month, Lassen Rural Bus offers a shuttle service. The bus can carry up to 6 bikes. Call for details 530-252-7433. The bus runs at other times and can carry two bikes.

BLM usually hosts of Fall Bike Ride on the trail. Fall colors along the Susan River are spectacular.

Fredonyer Peak ChallengeAbout 21 miles north of the Hwy 36/139 junction in Susanville, watch for the Fredonyer Peak Lookout sign on the right side of the road. Fredonyer Peak has a working Lookout Tower at the top, make sure to sign the guest book. The route climbs 2,450 up the slope of Fredonyer Peak and is about 20 miles round trip. Depending on your ability allow a minimum of 4 hours it may take up to 8 hours to complete. Make sure to plan time to enjoy the views from the lookout of Eagle Lake, Mt Shasta, Mt Lassen and views of the High Desert to the east.

Susanville Ranch Park29 miles of single track non-motorized multi use trails. Trails range from easy to challenging. The South Side Trail is 7.2 miles and connects with the Bizz Johnson Trail. Start the trail at the BLM day use area of Hobo Camp. Great Fall Bike Ride with a variety of fall foliage. Susanville Ranch Park hosts two mountain bike races annually Rid’in High at the Ranch in May and the Susanville Super D in Oct. More information is available on our events blog.

Biking Riding South of St. Bernard Lodge in Plumas CountyBucks Creek Loop TrailNear Bucks Lake, trailhead is on Forest Service Road 414 in the Plumas National Forest. Route is a 4.3 mile loop with a 400 foot elevation gain.

Quincy/Mount HoughVisit Plumas National Forest for information on more trails in the Mount Hough Area. The Mount Hough Huff-n-Puff is a 20 mile round trip route. Starts with a long 10 mile climb and elevation gain of 3,704 feet. Views from the top are amazing; Mt. Lassen can be seen to the north and the Sierra Buttes to the south. Ride starts and stops at Feather River Camp.

Around St. Bernard Lodge

Sierra Mountain Metric This route has been mapped by Chuck Elliot from Bodfish Bicycles in Chester, Ca. The 60 miles of all dirt off road biking starts just west of Chester near the old Cedar Chalet Bakery and circles through Ruffa Ranch, Humboldt and Humbug Valley. A shorter version cuts off near Fanani Meadows and loops back through Humbug Valley to the starting point. When staying at St. Bernard Lodge you can add 7 miles and ride from the lodge to the starting point on the map.

For More Information on Biking Northern CaliforniaChuck Elliot at Bodfish Quiet Mountain Sports is a great resource for more maps and tips on these routes plus a few more in the area. If your bike is in need of repairs or a tune-up he can take care of you. Phone: 530-258-2338 Website: www.bodfishbicycles.com/maps.html . He has drawn maps of many of these routes.

We have printed copies of these maps and guides available at St. Bernard Lodge for your use.

Crosscountry Skiing

During the winter months when the snow is falling, which fortunately for us runs about 4-6 months of the year, there are dozens of cross country ski and snowmobile trails that are accessible from the Lodge or from Lassen Park, Lassen National Forest, or Lake Almanor.

Some favorite spots for snowshoeing include the Lake Almanor Recreation Area along the west shore of Lake Almanor, the main park road to Sulphur Works and, for the more adventuress, up to Ridge Lakes or Brokeoff.

Cross Country Skiing trails include McGowan Trail just outside of Lassen Park which is groomed by the Lassen National Forest. The trailhead is 2 miles north of the 89/36 junction. The trail is good for both beginners and advance skiers. The Chico XC ski club skis this McGowan Trail often.

Lassen Park offers unparalleled skiing opportunities for relaxed skiing to the most challenging. The 29 mile snow covered road can be skied all or in part from either of the main entrances. There are miles of unmarked backcountry skiing available. The only marked trails are the Forest Lake Trail near the SW parking area and the Manzanita Lake Trail near the North entrance. Check out the Winter Trail Guide.

Snowmobiling

Lassen is known for some of the best snowmobiling in California.

Snowmobiling is a great way to enjoy a winter day in the Lassen National Forest and the Lake Almanor Basin. Experiencing the Sierras with a snowmobile is thrilling and can be enjoyed by the whole family. It varies each year, but the snowmobile season is usually from mid-December to mid March.

There are two snowmobile clubs in the area: The Chester-Lake Almanor Snowmobile Club and the Hillsliders. Both clubs hold an annual snowmobile poker run. The Hillsliders poker run usually takes place in late January and starts at the Butte Meadows-Jonesville Snowmobile Park. The Chester-Lake Almanor poker run is usually President's Weekend in February and starts at the snowmobile park at A-13 and Hwy 36.

St. Bernard Lodge is an ideal location for access to over 459 miles of designated snowmobile trails, the most groomed trails in California. There are 5 staging areas for snowmobiling near the lodge:

Snowmobiling West of the Lodge

Morgan SummitMorgan Summit is about 20 minutes west of the St. Bernard Lodge on Hwy 36. This snowmobile park offers 77 miles of designated trails, plenty of parking, a warming hut and vault toilets.

Chester-Lake Almanor Snowmobile ParkThe Chester-Lake Almanor Snowmobile Park is about 20 minutes east of St. Bernard Lodge at the intersection of A-13 and Hwy 36. This snowmobile park offers miles of designated trails, plenty of parking and vault toilets. This is also the staging area for the Chester Lake Almanor Snowmobile Annual Poker Run. The poker run usually falls on the Saturday during President’s Day weekend. If needed, an alternative date is scheduled in March.

Swain MountainSwain Mountain is located about 10 miles east of Westwood and about 40 minutes from St. Bernard Lodge. There are 60 miles of designated trails with 3 different loops. Vault toilets are available.

FredonyerFredonyer Snowmobile Park is 12 miles east of Westwood. There are 90 miles of trails and 3 loops and Vault toilets available.

JonesvilleThe main staging area for the Jonesville snowmobile park is on Humboldt Road past Butte Meadows. For guests staying at St. Bernard Lodge the snowmobile park can be accessed from near Cedar Lodge on Hwy 89. Click for a map. The Butte Meadows Hillsliders Snowmobile Club maintains the road above Butte Meadows to the snowmobile park as well as grooming all the trails from Jonesville to Chester. They are also responsible for and maintain a warming complex located halfway between Jonesville and Chester. The Hillsliders also hold a poker run each year usually at the end of January.

Reasons to Snowmobile

There are more than 4 million snowmobilers in Canada and the U.S.

Snowmobiling allows you access to the forest to view great scenery and wildlife which would otherwise be very difficult

Great activity to share with friendsA way to get away from the everyday demands of life

Study conducted by the Recreation Roundtable showed that people who recreated outdoors are happier, healthier and more productive

Basic Trail Manners and Safety Tips

Always travel with someone else. Let someone know where you will be and when you plan on returning. Do not count on your cell phone working

Learn basic hand gestures to get the attention of others before going out on a snowmobile. Snowmobiles can be loud and it is difficult to hear

Please be courteous and slow snowmobile to a minimum when you are near skiers, snowshoers or wildlife

Please do not take wheeled vehicles on groomed trails. Please do not snowmobile to trails designated for XC skiers and snowshoers only

Practice Leave No Trace. Make sure to take out anything that you brought into the forest. If possible remove trash others have left behind

Avoid riding over small trees and bushes

Check updated weather and avalanche report from the Forest Service or other agency before heading out

Do not chase or harass animals in the forest

Unforeseen events may occur. Be prepared with survival supplies and knowledge of how to build a snow cave

Have fun!

St. Bernard Lodge will be happy to keep you current on snow and trail conditions. Call 530-258-3382.

Hiking

Two great easy hikes in the Indian Valley, Greenville area are Round Valley Lake Nature Walk and Indian Falls.

Roundy Valley Lake Nature Walk is a one mile loop around Round Valley Reservoir. Usually a nice cool hike, great hike to do if weather is extremely warm in the area. Swimming and motorized boats are not permitted in the Lake. Great lake for Canoes and Kayaks.

Indian Falls is about nine miles south of Greenville on the east side of Hwy 89. The trail head is south of the Tayorsville turn-off and north of the Y junction of Hwy 89/70. It is a dirt parking area and easy to miss. There is only one small sign on the highway that simply says Indian Falls. Indian Falls is well worth a stop for a short 10 minute walk to the beach area and waterfall. It is a very quiet and peaceful, it is easy to understand why this was a special place for the Maidu Indians. There is some signage along the trail explaining a little bit about the area and the Maidu Indians.

Hikes Near Chester and Lake Almanor

Lake Almanor Recreation TrailThis trail runs along the west shore of Lake Almanor for about 12 miles. The trail is paved making for easy footing. It runs between the Canyon Dam Boat Launch Area at the south end to just south of Lake Almanor West. The northern trailhead is on the east side of Hwy 89 across from Humbug Road. Hiking or biking the Lake Almanor Recreational Trail gives you wonderful views of Lake Almanor, Dyer Mountain and a few breath taking views of Lassen Peak. Great trail for spotting Bald Eagles and Osprey as well as other birds.

Collins Pine Nature TrailThe trail starts at the west end of Chester Park and loops through second growth woodlands. Plan to stop at the Collins Pine Museum for a guide before starting this hike.

Locherman Canyon Nature TrailThis is also known as the Mike McCollum Nature Trail. The trailhead is just over 5 miles north of the Hwy 36/89 junction just west of Chester. Start at the Amphitheater and follow the loop which is a little over ½ mile. The trail passes through several different habitats. There are twelve points of interest along the trail. Please ask for a guide at St. Bernard Lodge or the Lassen National Forest Almanor Ranger District.

Closest Trails to St. Bernard LodgeThe two closest trails to the Lodge are the Pacific Crest Trail and the Spencer Meadow National Recreation Trail.

Pacific Crest TrailThe PCT is 1.4 miles east of St. Bernard Lodge. There is parking on the north side of Hwy 36. The trail can be hike either direction from here. Hiking north about 7 miles will take you to Stover Springs. Hiking south you will cross Soldier Meadows and Carter Mountain. Just off of the PCT on the north side of the Hwy. is an area called Collins Park 40. This trail makes a short loop and returns to the PCT. Collins Pines has marked several point on interest along the trail. There are trail brochures on site or you can view a brochure here.

Spencer Meadow National Recreation TrailSpencer Meadow Trailhead is about 11 miles west of St. Bernard Lodge on the north side of Hwy 36. It is before you get to Childs Meadow.

Hikes East of Chester and St. Bernard LodgeBizz Johnson National Recreation TrailThis trail is a rails to trails conversion. It has been rated as the most scenic rail trail in California by the Rails to Trails Conservancy. It stretches 25 miles between Westwood and Susanville. One of the best times of the year to hike this trail is in the fall, for the fantastic fall colors. The trail is open to mountain bikes and horseback riders in addition to hikers. Brochure and directions.

Osprey Trail and OverlookThis trail overlooks Eagle Lake; the trailhead begins just after the Camp Ronald McDonald. There is also a disabled parking area a little further up with a paved accessible trail to the overlook. Osprey Trail is ½ mile and starts with a platform with an osprey nest and you will be able to see this nest again from the top of the overlook. There are interpretive signs along the trail explaining about the Osprey and Eagles in the area. Make sure to take your camera on this hike. Trail guide at St. Bernard Lodge or the Eagle Lake District Office for Lassen National Forest.

Caves in the AreaWe have three caves all very different in the area if you enjoy exploring under ground.

Wilson Lake Ice CavesThe best part of the Wilson Lake Ice Caves is finding them. The caves are off of Wilson Lake Road and above Wilson Lake. Wilson Lake Road is about 10 miles west of St. Bernard Lodge off of Hwy 36. There are several caves in the area and a geo cache. The geo cache is Double A and it is a ammo box. Check with us at the lodge for basic directions and landmarks. If you want you can use GPS; Cave Coordinates N40.336954 and W 121.42333. Labor Day 2014 someone built a wooden couch near the ice caves you can use as a landmark. The caves openings are fairly small; one cave has a 150 foot rope to help you down. Best to hike in the spring if you want to see the ice in the caves.

Hamilton Branch CavesThese caves have been a secret, until Feather River College students shared information on the caves. The cave entrance is about 2 miles from the area known as Hamilton Branch at Lake Almanor. The caves are an easy two level cave, you do not need ropes but you will need headlamps. Pictures and directions to the caves.

Subway CavesThe Subway Caves are actually a lava tube formed about 20,000 years ago by a flow of molten lava. The entrance to the cave was formed by a partial collapse of the cave’s roof. The caves are just north of the Hwy. 44/89 junction across from Cave Campground. The height of the cave varies from 6 to 17 feet, make sure to take flashlight or headlamps. PDF for Subway Caves

Geo CachingThere are several hundred geo caches close to St. Bernard Lodge. Several are located near hiking and biking trails listed. Click for Geo Cache locations.

Geo Caching is a fun outdoor treasure hunt using GPS to find hidden caches. Make sure to bring a small item to trade from the cache and fill out logbook. Geo Caching adds a new dimension to hiking. Have fun!

The aforementioned is a selected list of a few hikes in the Lassen area. Between Eagle Lake BLM district, Lassen National Forest, Plumas National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park there are over 3 million acres and 609 miles of hiking trails to explore. We have found that the National Forest, BLM and NPS website can be difficult to find information that you would need in planning a trip to the area.

Please call the Lodge 530-258-3382 and we can help you find the information you are looking for.

Fishing

For the angler, we offer stream fishing in Deer Creek, just minutes from the Lodge. We can tell you the best spots to try. The Lodge is also minutes away fromLake Almanor and Butt Lake. Eagle Lake and Antelope Lake are both about one hour away and are great fishing venues. Lassen Park has several great lakes to fish.

Serious and not-so-serious fishermen rave about Lake Almanor. Lake Almnanor is one of the largest man made lakes in California and the largest in Plumas County with 52 miles of shoreline. The Lake is reknowned for trout and small mouth bass. Lake Almanor is known worldwide for the Hexegenia Hatch from June to early July. Fishing during the Hex Hatch is a unique experience not to be missed. There are several great fishing guides available to take you fishing on the Lake. Many provide everything you need except a fishing license.

Close by is Butt Lake with 12 miles of shoreline. Brown trout and Rainbow trout can be fished in the Lake. There is a small boat launch. Jet skiing and waterskiing are not allowed which makes for a quieter lake than Lake Almanor for fishing, kayaking and just swimming.

Antelope Lake is about one hour from the Lodge and it straddles both Lassen and Plumas Counties. Antelope Lake has 14 miles of shoreline and rainbow, brown and eagle lake trout can all be caught here. Fishing in Indian Creek beneath the spillway of Antelope Dam usually has good fishing. This lake is stocked yearly by Fish and Game. Jet skis and waterskiing are allowed on Antelope Lake.

Eagle Lake is a favorite of many fishermen for Eagle Lake Trout which at one time could only be found at Eagle Lake. Fish and Game has since started stocking eagle lake trout in other California Lakes. Eagle Lake is the second largest natural lake in California with over 100 miles of shoreline. Besides great fishing, Eagle Lake is known for a large variety of birds. Both golden and bald eagles can be found nesting. There is a ½ mile trail from Gallatin Beach to Osprey Overlook. The Overlook offers you views of Eagle Lake and nesting Osprey. It is a memorable sight to watch an eagle or osprey catches a fish.

Lassen Park offers a variety of lakes to fish. A few of the more popular lakes are Butte Lake near the Cinder Cone Trailhead and Snag Lake, about 3.5 miles from Butte Lake. There is hiking along the edge of the Fantastic Lava Beds. Horseshoe Lake is in the SE part of Lassen Park. The trailhead is near Juniper Lake. Just follow the trail for about 1.5 miles to Snag Lake. If you are looking for solitude, Snag Lake and Horseshoe Lake will be for you.

The most popular and easiest Lake to reach is Manzanita Lake near the North entrance of the park. This is a catch and release only lake. This is a great lake to take the kids fishing. Kayak rentals are available in the summer from Cal Parks Co.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

The St. Bernard Lodge and surrounding area of Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lake Almanor have so much to offer for those who love the outdoors from hiking and horseback riding to fishing and camping to photography and geology. We suggest at least a 3 night stay to see the area if at all possible in your travel plans. Many guests come back to this area year after year just to see more.

Day 1 - Visit the new Visitor Center at the south Entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The Visitor Center has been named Kohm Yah-mah-nee which is the Mt. Maidu name for Snowy Mountain (Lassen Peak). The Visitor Center has an auditorium showing a short film of Park history and sights. There are hands-on interpretive exhibits and displays for all ages. The Visitor Center is open 7 days a week from 9:00 am - 5:00pm and will give you a great overview of the Park. The Park Rangers can give you up-to-date information on trail conditions. This building is believed to be the first LEED-certified visitor center in the National Park Services.

Depending on your interests choose several of the hikes off the main road. Some of the more popular hikes are: Brokeoff, Mill Creek Falls, King Creek Falls, Bumpass Hell and Lassen Peak. After a full day of hiking return to the lodge to relax, have a drink at the bar, dinner and maybe play a game of pool.

Day 2 - Visit the South East corner of Lassen Volcanic Park and Drakesbad Guest Ranch. To enjoy the hikes in this area you do not need reservations; however, reservations are required in advance for horseback riding, lunch, or dinner at Drakesbad.

If you have reservations for a meal we suggest staying to soak in the mineral hot spring pool.

The favorite hikes in this part of the park are: Devils Kitchen, Boiling Springs Lake and Terminal Geyser. We suggest picking one or two of the hikes. Each one is unique. All three hikes can be completed in one day by serious hikers.

Devils Kitchen is one of the easier hikes in the park: it is at a lower elevations, relatively flat and 4.2 miles round-trip. You are rewarded with some very interesting mud pots at the end of the hike. This is the second largest geothermal area in Lassen Park.

Boiling Springs Lake is also an easy hike of 1.8 miles from the trailhead. It is the largest active geothermal feature in Lassen Park and one of the largest hot water lakes in the world. The Lake is an interesting sea green color and the water is heated by steam vents beneath the lake at a crispy 125 degrees.

Terminal Geyser is 1.8 miles from the same trailhead or 4.4 miles round trip from the Willow Lake Campground. Terminal Geyser is not a true "geyser"; rather, it is a fumarole or steam vent flowing into a stream.

Day 3 - Take a break from hiking. Spend some time on Lake Almanor or Butt Lake. Lake Almanor has year-round fishing, boat, and jet ski, kayak, paddleboard, and bicycle rentals in the summer. For motor boat rentals, visitMajor’s Outpost on the west shore of Lake Almanor and for non powered boats look up Lake Almanor Kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboard and Bike Rentals in Canyon Dam. Horseback riding is available at Plumas Pines Stables near the west shore of Lake Almanor.

Butt Lake is smaller and quieter than Lake Almanor and is a great location for picnics, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.

Day 4 - Visit the NE corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hike Cinder Cone which is a 350 year old volcano. View the painted dunes and look down into an actual volcano. For the serious hiker, add in Prospect Peak which is a shield volcano and looks down on Cinder Cone. Part of the Cinder Cone trail follows a portion of the Nobles Emigrant Trail. Also, watch to see if you can see any old wagon tracks. If planning on both, we suggest hiking Cinder Cone first and then Prospect Peak on the way back to the trailhead.

When in the area make sure to stop at Hat Creek Rim Overlook on Hwy 44. You will be able to see the valley that Hat Creek and Fall River Mills sit in and the major peaks in the area including Mt. Shasta, Lassen Peak, West Prospect Peak, Crater Peak, Magee Peak and Burney Mountain. The overlook has two pay telescopes to make sure you do not miss anything.

Subway Caves is always a fun stop. A great little walk on a hot summer day, the lava tube is 46 degrees year-round. The Lava tubes are 1/3 of a mile long. Make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamps. The Subway Cave is a day use area in the Lassen National Forest. Free guided tours are offered each weekend from early June to Labor Day. You can also visit the lava tubes on a self guided tour.

Day 5 - Stroll Chester’s museum’s and gift shops. Chester has the last log cabin library in California. Lassen Gift’s has an old fashion soda fountain and the best milk shakes and freezes in he area. It has been written up in Sunset Magazine in the past. Greenville, Taylorsville and Quincy all have quaint museums and gift shops to visit. The Indian Valley Arm between Greenville and Taylorsville is a great back country road and part of Plumas County’s Barn Quilt Tour.

Day 6 - Spend the day wine tasting in Manton. Manton has 6 bonded wineries and 11 vineyards. The area has been designated the Manton Valley American Viticultural Area. There are only 230 such designated Viticultural areas in the United States.

To make a full day of it, we suggest heading west on Hwy 36 from St. Bernard Lodge, take a right on Lyons Ferry Road before Paynes Creek and follow signs into Manton. After visiting the wineries, head north to Shingletown. If you had not had your fill of wineries there are two more wineries in Shingletown. Shingletown is also home to the Wild Horse Sanctuary on Wilson Road. The Wild Horse Sanctuary is open amd free to the public on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am–4pm for Wild horse viewing. At Shingletown, head east on Hwy 44 and drop back through Lassen Park on Hwy 89. You can also continue on Hwy 44 and circle around the east side of Lassen Park and come in at Westwood. From Westwood head west again back to St. Bernard Lodge. If you circle around Lassen Park you may want to stop and see the Subway Caves and Hat Creek Rim Overlook.

Crater Lake National Park

Driving from Lassen Park to Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon about a half days ride from Lassen Volcanic National Park in northern California. The drive from St. Bernard Lodge to Crater Lake is a little over 200 miles.

Crater Lake National Park is open year-round and is considered by many to be the snowiest place in the Northwestern United States. Over 500 inches of snow drops annually which allows for magnificent vistas, backcountry camping and hiking in old growth forests, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The most popular attraction, however, is Crater Lake.

Crater Lake is a caldera lake which is a cauldron-like feature that was formed when the Mount Mazama volcano erupted then collapsed on itself and the land around it almost 7,700 years ago. The Crater Lake caldera is 6 miles wide, is the deepest lake in the United States at 1,932 feet and 7th deepest lake in the world.

It is known for its deep blue color, impeccable water clarity and the Old Man of the Lake which is a full-sized tree that has bobbed in the middle of Crater Lake consistently and reliably for over 100 years. There are no inlets or outlets to Crater Lake.

The water in Crater Lake has a greater UV transparency than any other natural body of water in the world. Light penetrates up to depths of 320 feet on a regular basis.

Great way to see Crater Lake is via a boat tour. The only legal way to access the shore of Crater Lake is via the 1.1 mile Cleetwood Cove Trail. This is a strenuous trail with a 11% grade.

Suggested to take 33-mile Rim Drive when visiting Crater Lake. Do not want to miss Phantom Rock or Wizard Island.

Lodging and Accommodations for Travelers to Crater Lake National Park and Other National Parks

For travelers exploring other National Parks in the vicinity of Crater Lake, make sure to add Lassen Volcanic National Park to your list. When visiting Lassen Park consider St. Bernard Lodge in Mill Creek, CA as the perfect B&B and inn stopover for singles, couples, families and groups to stay, rest in rustic comfort and eat and drink great food.

St. Bernard Lodge in Mill Creek is minutes from Lassen Volcanic National Park and is a central lodging, and bed and breakfast location for travelers en route from/to Lake Tahoe or other surrounding National Parks such as Lassen, Yosemite National Park, or Redwood National Park.

St. Bernard Lodge is a beautiful rustic inn whose second floor has 7 rooms and can sleep up to 20 guests. The restaurant and tavern on the first floor can feed up to 50 diners which means that those coming in to Lassen to camp or with RVs can also be seated comfortably. Call us at 530.258.3382 to reserve or feel free to reserve online.

Crater Lake National Park Map and Directions

Click on the following link for a map and directions from Crater Lake National Park in Oregon to St. Bernard Lodge in Mill Creek, CA. Mount Lassen Volcanic National Park in Mineral, CA is only a 20 minute drive from the Lodge.

Crater Lake National Park Location

Crater Lake National Park is located in southern Oregon about an hour north northeast of Medford in the Cascade Range. Crater Lake is about a 5 ½ hour drive from Lassen Volcanic National Park in northern California and only 10 ½ hours to Yosemite National Park. The closest major airport is Eugene Airport located in Eugene, Oregon. The airport is about 120 miles northwest of the Park.

Things to See on your Drive from Crater Lake to St. Bernard Lodge

Collier Memorial Park, a nice place to get out and stretch your legs. It's 30 miles north of Klamath Falls on U.S. Highway 97. Collier Memorial Park is an outdoor museum of historic logging equipment and a relocated pioneer village.

South of Klamath Falls off of Hwy 39 is the Lava Bed National Monument. If you are into caves and geological features this is a great place to stop. Visitors are able to explore dozens of developed caves on their own. Guided tours are available in the summer months. Make sure to bring a flashlight and be prepared for cool temperatures in the caves. Year-round the temperature in the caves are about 55 degrees F or 13 degrees C.

One of the least challenging caves is Mushopt Cave and the only lighted cave. A moderate challenge is the Sunshine Cave. If you are really into cave crawling try the Labyrinth Cave and Lava Brook Cave. Park contact number is 530-667-8100.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park has one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Burney Falls is 129 feet tall. Pacific Crest Trail passes through the Park. The Park is located off Hwy 89, eleven miles north of Burney. You can take either the 1 mile loop or the 2.4 mile loop to see the falls. Burney Falls is about two hours from St. Bernard Lodge and well worth a quick stop if driving by.

Subway Cave located in Lassen National Forest off Hwy 89 is a fun stop. The Cave is a lava tube that was formed some 2000 years ago. It extends 1300 feet. This is an easy lava tube to explore for both young and old alike. Once again you need a flashlight and the cave temperature is about 55 degrees F year-round. Admission to this cave is FREE. From here you are only about an hour drive to St. Bernard Lodge.

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwoods are the tallest trees on Earth with lengths in excess of 300 feet. But, it usually takes 200 years for redwoods to grow that tall. Redwoods are thought to be the oldest trees on Earth as well but that isnít so. The oldest Bristlecone Pine tree in the Sierra Nevada mountain range is 4,500 years old.

There are three types of redwoods: The coast redwood is located in Redwood National Park along the pacific coast of the United States. The giant sequoia is located inland in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and the deciduous dawn redwood is located in China and is diminutive by comparison growing to about 115 feet in height.

In addition to the giant redwood trees, Redwood National Park also protects fauna, flora, prairie, rivers, streams, and, of course, the coastline from development.

Lodging and Accommodations for Travelers to Redwood National Park and Other National ParksMany travelers enjoy visiting and experiencing the differing features of the National Parks in California and Oregon because of the short drives involved. For example, driving from Redwood National Park to Lassen Volcanic National Park is less than 6 hours in a car; Redwood to Yosemite is only a full day drive at 10 ½ hours. However, the trick of traveling is to not arrive at your locale tired and hungry.

For travelers exploring the National Parks north, east and southeast of Redwood National and State Parks, St. Bernard Lodge in Mill Creek, CA is the best bet for lodging for travelers en route from Redwood National Park to other National Parks such as Lassen Volcanic National Park, Crater Lake National Park, or Yosemite National Park.

St. Bernard Lodge, a rustic bed and breakfast, offers inn-like qualities. Itís 20 minutes from Lassen Volcanic National Park in Mineral, CA and is an historic, rustic and hugely popular bed and breakfast and inn where people and groups of all sizes and from all areas of the world come to mingle, stay, take a load off, and enjoy a wonderful home cooked meal with new friends.

The historic, wooden and rustic feel of the lodge gives St. Bernard that inn like feel and the family and caring attitudes of the owners give it the bed and breakfast feel. The second floor of St. Bernard Lodge is where all of the bedroom are - 7 rooms total sleeping a total of 22 guests. The first floor is where all of the meals are served. The restaurant and tavern can accommodate 50 diners so that guests with RVís parked outside can enjoy a home cooked meal as well warm rustic comfort. Call us at 530.258.3382 to reserve your stay or feel free to reserve online.

Redwood National Park LocationRedwood National and State Parks is located all along the northern California coastline beginning in the southern city of Trinidad and ending in the northern California city of Klamath Glen to the north.

Redwood National Park is a 10 ½ hours drive from Yosemite National Park and under 6 hours to Lassen Volcanic National Park. St. Bernard Lodge is right in between.

Points of Interest between Redwood National Park and St. Bernard Lodge"Joss House" in WeavervilleThe Joss House is a Chinese Taoist temple and the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. Park Brochure.

Whiskeytown National Recreation AreaNice stop to view the lake and short walk to Mill Creek Falls or a longer hike to Whiskeytown Falls. Nice beach area to take a quick swim on a hot day. The Camden House Historic District is within the Whiskeytown Recreation area and a great place for a picnic. The 7 day pass to Whiskeytown also gets you into Lassen Park. The seven pass from Lassen Park will get you into Whiskeytown.

Shasta State Historic ParkThe Historic Park was once the gold mining town of Shasta. The park is made up of several historic buildings. Park Brochure.

Sundial BridgeThe Sundial Bridge is the world’s longest, glass surfaced, cable-stayed suspension pedestrian bridge as well al the largest working sundial. It was built to not interfere with the Salmon coming up stream in the Sacramento River.Webcam of Bridge.

Turtle Bay MuseumThe Turtle Bay Museum is just off the south side of the Sundial Bridge. It has great display for kids. One of the permanent interesting displays is the underwater fish viewing of fish in the Sacramento River.

The William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park This park is just off of I-5 in Red Bluff. It was the home of the only president of the California Republic. Park Brochure.

You most likely will not want to make all of these stops between St. Bernard Lodge and the Redwoods; you may want to pick one or two depending on your interests. Most of Hwy 299 is a two lane Highway, take your time and enjoy.

Lake Almanor

Lake Almanor is located in Plumas County in northern California, just a few minutes drive southeast from Mount Lassen Volcanic National Park in Mineral, California and just due east from St. Bernard Lodge in Mill Creek.

If you have set aside a couple of days while visiting Lassen Volcanic Park or just need some rest and relaxation from your tour of the national parks in the vicinity of Lassen, make sure to take a half or full day to enjoy the beauty and outdoor sports that Lake Almanor offers. It ís the second largest manmade lake in California. Lake Almanor has great fishing with fishing guides available year-round. In the summer, it is a go-to lake for many for fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming and just relaxing. Lake Almanor is at the top of the watershed and has not been negatively affected by the drought like Shasta and Lake Oroville.

Lake Almanor came into being in 1914 when the Great Western Power Company dammed the north fork of the Feather River. Before this the Maidu Indians called it ìoy-ding-koyoî or Big Meadows. In 1848 Peter Lassen led a party through Big Meadows. At one time there were many dairies and ranches dotted along the meadows. Now Lake Almanor is one of the largest man made lakes in California and the largest in Plumas County. The Lake is 13 miles long and 6 miles wide containing 52 miles of shoreline. Water temperature in the summer reaches 75 degrees F, which makes it great for water sports.

The Lake Almanor Recreation Trail runs nine and one-half miles along the west side of Lake Almanor. It is a terrific trail for snowshoeing in the winter. In the summer, it is a nice trail for an easy family hike or biking excursion. From the trails there are several places to stop and take in the spectacular views of Lake Almanor, Dyer Mountain and Mt. Lassen. The Trail is 10 feet wide and paved so it is comfortable for both bicyclists and hikers.

The Lake Almanor Basin is known for one of the largest known breeding population of Osprey in the Western States. It is not uncommon to spot Osprey in a nest or circling the lake to catch of fish.

Enjoy Outdoor Sports, Hiking and Camping at Lake Almanor

In the Winter, you can enjoy snowmobiling, cross country skiing, Christmas tree cutting, and snowshoeing. In the summer months, you can golf, hike, bike, camp and of course, fish. Since Lake Almanor has 52 miles of shoreline, it is a mecca for water sports like boating, swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, float tubing.

Lake Almanor Lodging and Accommodations

St. Bernard Lodge is a central and unique Lassen and Lake Almanor lodging location for travelers en route from/to to other surrounding National Parks such as Lassen Volcanic National Park, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon,Yosemite National Park, or Redwood National Park.

St. Bernard Lodge is a beautiful rustic inn-style bed and breakfast (B&B) whose second floor has 7 rooms and can sleep up to 20 guests. The restaurant and tavern on the first floor can feed up to 50 guests. St. Bernard Lodge accepts RVís and campers are invited to explore the many campgrounds within 10 miles of the Lodge.